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Article
Publication date: 30 October 2018

Nur Khairlida Muhamad Khair, Khai Ern Lee, Mazlin Mokhtar and Choo Ta Goh

The purpose of this paper is to explore the barriers and challenges faced by chemical industries in Malaysia causing to the low participation in Responsible Care program. Also…

241

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the barriers and challenges faced by chemical industries in Malaysia causing to the low participation in Responsible Care program. Also, this paper aims to propose a solution to address the issues in implementing Responsible Care by introducing a Simplified and Integrated Management System for Responsible Care.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire was distributed to 132 Responsible Care signatory companies in Malaysia, and they were given a week to return it via e-mail. Combining the inputs from the survey and document analysis, a Simplified and Integrated Management System for Responsible Care (SIMS-RC) was proposed.

Findings

Responsible Care signatory companies faced barriers in implementing product stewardship code and they also faced challenges in getting employees’ commitment from all levels. Taking the inputs received from Responsible Care signatory companies and document analysis, an SIMS-RC was proposed as a closed-loop process which consists of quality, environmental, health and safety management system.

Research limitations/implications

Some of the chemical companies were unable to share their thoughts in the survey due to the companies’ confidential reason.

Originality/value

Abundant literature has discussed about the limitation of Responsible Care that needs to be improved. Therefore, several elements and procedures of the program need to be revised and innovated to help the signatory companies to continuously improve their performances and encourage more participation in Responsible Care program. The findings will add value to the current body of knowledge and Responsible Care signatory companies which seek to improve Responsible Care implementation through an integrated management system approach. The proposed SIMS-RC is a simple, integrated, holistic and process-oriented management system in which it blends Responsible Care into quality, environmental, health and safety management system.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 30 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

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Article
Publication date: 19 July 2019

Suganty Kanapathy, Khai Ern Lee, Mazlin Mokhtar, Sharifah Zarina Syed Zakaria, Subarna Sivapalan and Azizah Mohd Zahidi

This paper aims to discuss the knowledge levels, attitudes and behaviours regarding the concept of sustainable development among pre-university programme educators, as well as the…

436

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the knowledge levels, attitudes and behaviours regarding the concept of sustainable development among pre-university programme educators, as well as the potential barriers and opportunities they face in adopting the concept of sustainable development in the teaching of the pre-university level chemistry module at a public university in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted with eight educators of a pre-university programme at a public university located in Selangor, Malaysia. This pre-university programme exposes students to advanced courses in science, which are very much like first-year university courses for candidates who are interested in gaining admission to degree programmes. For this study, the focus was on chemistry educators only. The collected data were analysed through descriptive analysis following which interviews were conducted with the respondents.

Findings

In general, the educators have good knowledge and attitudes towards the concept of sustainable development. Moreover, their projected knowledge (K), attitude (A) and behaviour (B) focus more on environmental dimensions, as opposed to other sustainable development dimensions. While the integration of the concept of sustainable development in chemistry teaching is restricted by a few barriers, such as content-based learning, lack of guidebooks related to sustainable development and an overcrowded curriculum, positive responses from the chemistry educators indicate that there are opportunities to implement sustainable chemistry concepts in the pre-university chemistry module.

Research limitations/implications

The present study was conducted with several limitations; the data were obtained from a small sample size at an institute located within a public university. The respondents of this research consisted of only three existing chemistry educators and five administrators who are also educators. Further studies about sustainable chemistry teaching should include samples from other public and private universities.

Originality/value

This paper is instrumental in assisting the Ministry of Education, administrators, as well as educators within the pre-university sector to shift their goals towards sustainable chemistry teaching to achieve success in education for sustainable development.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. 20 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

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Article
Publication date: 6 November 2018

Suganty Kanapathy, Khai Ern Lee, Subarna Sivapalan, Mazlin Mokhtar, Sharifah Zarina Syed Zakaria and Azizah Mohd Zahidi

This paper aims to investigate the knowledge, attitude and behaviour of foundation chemistry learners concerning the sustainable development concept.

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the knowledge, attitude and behaviour of foundation chemistry learners concerning the sustainable development concept.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative and quantitative studies were conducted. Atlas.ti software was used to analyse the chemistry curriculum based on selected themes and sub-themes. A survey was carried out involving 132 chemistry learners. The chemistry learners were students from a foundation programme in a local university located in Selangor, Malaysia. The collected data were analysed using SPSS 21.0 involving descriptive and inferential statistics.

Findings

Document analysis on the chemistry curriculum shows that water is the theme most covered in the chemistry learners’ textbook, as compared to other themes. In general, the chemistry learners have good knowledge and attitude concerning the sustainable development concept. However, their knowledge and attitude do not reflect in their behaviour as an individual, as well as in the classroom. Moreover, their knowledge, attitude and behaviour focus more on environmental dimension, as compared to other sustainable development dimensions.

Practical implications

This paper is instrumental in assisting educators to assess how chemistry learners perceive sustainable development, and this may help to bring about changes to improve chemistry teaching and learning processes towards education for sustainable development.

Originality/value

This paper is an original and novel research paper which is first conducted on sustainable development concept in chemistry curriculum in Malaysia.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. 20 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

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Article
Publication date: 14 August 2024

Goh Choo Ta, Sharina Abdul Halim, Mohamad Mahathir Amir Sultan, Wan Daraputri Razali, Mazlin Mokhtar and Ibrahim Komoo

University research institutes were established in Malaysian Universities to facilitate research activities that do not fit into discipline-oriented departments, including the…

44

Abstract

Purpose

University research institutes were established in Malaysian Universities to facilitate research activities that do not fit into discipline-oriented departments, including the multi- and inter-disciplinary research that goes beyond the single-disciplinary boundary. This paper aims to report on a case study of one university research institute established in Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), known as the institute for environment and development (LESTARI). LESTARI conducts multi-disciplinary research that emphasises research and capacity building on issues related to sustainable development. The aims of this paper are to examine the research evolution undergone at LESTARI, and to ascertain its contribution towards sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Design/methodology/approach

LESTARI was established two years after the Rio Conference held in 1992, with the aims of promoting sustainable development through research and capacity building. This paper uses a qualitative approach to evaluate the research evolution of LESTARI, and a quantitative analysis to ascertain LESTARI’s contribution to SDGs.

Findings

After almost 30 years of establishment, LESTARI has moved from multi-disciplinary research to inter-disciplinary research. Although the transition was based on respective research areas (e.g. chemicals management and geopark), the research maturity of LESTARI is shown in its transformation from conventional to translational research. LESTARI has proven its capability to conduct multi-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary research, and the research outputs are also contributing to the SDGs.

Practical implications

The LESTARI case study has shown that as long as a research institute has a firm and clear research direction, regardless of how it is evaluated and monitored (e.g. evaluated by SDGs), the research institute remains relevant in the context of its establishment.

Social implications

The findings from this paper serve to set LESTARI as an example for other university research institutes, whether in Malaysia or in other countries.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this contribution is the first that discusses the transition from multi-disciplinary research to inter-disciplinary research, as well as the contribution to SDGs, among university research institutes in Malaysia.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. 25 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

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Article
Publication date: 27 July 2021

Nur Khairlida Muhamad Khair, Khai Ern Lee, Mazlin Mokhtar, Choo Ta Goh, Harminder Singh and Pek Wan Chan

The Responsible Care programme was first introduced in Canada in 1985 and now is implemented worldwide as one of the chemical industries' commitments to improve the industries'…

113

Abstract

Purpose

The Responsible Care programme was first introduced in Canada in 1985 and now is implemented worldwide as one of the chemical industries' commitments to improve the industries' public image as well as their performance in health, safety and environmental aspects. In Malaysia, the Responsible Care programme has been implemented since 1994 with a current total of 148 companies pledged to implement it in their company; however, the effectiveness of the programme remains unknown. Hence, this paper aims to assess the effectiveness of the Responsible Care programme in improving performance in the environment, health and safety in terms of documentation, training, selection processes and stakeholders' engagement for the sustainability of chemical industries.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was administered to the Responsible Care signatory companies in Malaysia. Of these, a total of 132 member companies either produced or provided services related to chemical products.

Findings

The majority of signatory companies agreed that the Responsible Care programme did improve their performance in the environment, health and safety. Besides that, the signatory companies were also keeping up their commitment to ensuring documentation, training, selection process and stakeholders' engagement run smoothly in line with Responsible Care's mission.

Originality/value

After more than two decades of implementation in Malaysia, it is important to assess the Responsible Care programme's effectiveness. As an increasing number of chemical firms, without good management, it will possibly pose a danger to the environment and human health and safety. Through assessment, advances in Responsible Care management practices will considerably increase programme effectiveness in terms of environmental health and safety.

Details

International Journal of Workplace Health Management, vol. 14 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8351

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Article
Publication date: 16 June 2021

Suganty Kanapathy, Khai Ern Lee, Mazlin Mokhtar, Sharifah Zarina Syed Zakaria and Subarna Sivapalan

In Malaysia, research indicates that there is an interest amongst the stakeholders, namely, administrators and academicians to be engaged in education for sustainable development…

609

Abstract

Purpose

In Malaysia, research indicates that there is an interest amongst the stakeholders, namely, administrators and academicians to be engaged in education for sustainable development (SD), but it is rarely implemented as a part of the higher education curriculum due to various barriers. This paper aims to develop a framework for integrating SD concepts into the chemistry curriculum, using a case study approach.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was conducted at a local university located in Selangor, Malaysia, offering a foundation programme to students between 17 to 18 years of age. Data was collected using a qualitative approach that involved 12 experts as informants. The collected data was analysed via three coding stages, namely, open coding, category coding and thematic encoding using Atlas.ti 7.0 software.

Findings

The research revealed that six aspects contribute to the integration of SD concepts into the chemistry curriculum, namely, educational policy, awareness, resources, curriculum, pedagogical approach and stakeholders’ engagement. The proposed framework was formulated by considering these aspects.

Originality/value

The findings of this study can be used as a guide to facilitate the integration of SD concepts into the chemistry curriculum. It is expected to encourage the involvement of more teachers in adopting sustainable chemistry teaching.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. 22 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

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Article
Publication date: 11 February 2019

Mohamad Mahathir Amir Sultan, Choo Ta Goh, Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh and Mazlin Mokhtar

Mercury is widely used in medical and healthcare facilities as dental amalgam, mercury-added medical devices, thiomersal-containing vaccines, laboratory analysis and for other…

219

Abstract

Purpose

Mercury is widely used in medical and healthcare facilities as dental amalgam, mercury-added medical devices, thiomersal-containing vaccines, laboratory analysis and for other general applications despite the hazards. Various agencies consistently promote mercury-free medical facilities through mercury-free alternatives and better management practices, which are in line with the Minamata Convention on Mercury that aims to protect human health and environment from anthropogenic mercury release. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a gap analysis on recommended practices gathered from the literature and current practices gathered through semi-structured interviews with Malaysian medical personnel. A life cycle approach was adopted covering mercury use: input, storage, handling, accident, waste disposal and governance phases.

Findings

The authors found that there are significant gaps between recommended and current mercury management practices. Analysis indicates improper mercury management as the main contributor to these gaps. The authors found from recommended practices that core components needing improvement include: mercury management action plan, mercury use identification team, purchasing policy, proper guidelines and monitoring systems.

Practical implications

This study helps us to understand mercury management practices and suggests essential steps to establish a mercury-free medical facility.

Originality/value

This study explored the gaps between recommended and current mercury management practices in a medical facility and contributes to the Minamata Convention on Mercury aspirations.

Details

International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, vol. 32 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0952-6862

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Article
Publication date: 1 November 2011

Sarva Mangala Praveena, Mohd Harun Abdullah, Ahmad Zaharin Aris, Mazlin Mokhtar and Kawi Bidin

This paper aims to define the current and potential extent of seawater intrusion in Manukan Island under different scenarios of varying recharge and pumping rates. The calibrated…

456

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to define the current and potential extent of seawater intrusion in Manukan Island under different scenarios of varying recharge and pumping rates. The calibrated model was also used to predict the extent of seawater intrusion in low lying area of Manukan Island for two years with all conditions assumed to remain the same as those in December 2009.

Design/methodology/approach

Different scenarios of varying recharge and pumping rates based on threats received by Manukan Island were investigated. El‐Nino events and overpumping are represented by varying recharge and pumping rates. Simulation was done using SEAWAT‐2000, the latest modeling software available in groundwater modeling that couples flow and transport together.

Findings

The seawater‐freshwater mixing ratio moves landwards after two years of simulation in Scenario 1. In order to control overpumping in this study area, Scenario 2 has resulted in backward movement of the 1.4 percent seawater‐freshwater mixing ratio toward the coast after two years of prediction. The current contamination of the coastal aquifers by seawater intrusion will be more severe with an impact of El‐Nino events on groundwater resources depletion in Scenario 3. Reductions of pumping and recharge rates in Scenario 4 have worsened the seawater intrusion problem. With the aid of artificial recharge in Scenario 5, highest hydraulic heads and lowest chloride concentration were observed.

Practical implications

The sustainable groundwater management selected for Manukan Island's current situation will be Scenario 2. In view of the effects of El‐Nino events in the future, Scenario 5 can be implemented to restore groundwater resources. The numerical model has showed the groundwater condition during El‐Nino events and overpumping illustrated that simulation modeling is an excellent tool to understand the behavior and management of an aquifer system. The output of simulation modeling via numerical model provides a framework toward groundwater management. Thus, current study output with similar approach which will restore groundwater (artificial recharge and reduction of pumping rate) can be applied in other small islands of similar hydrogeological condition and stresses for the purpose of groundwater resource protection.

Originality/value

Briefly, these findings will effectively contribute to water policy analysis, planning and management in the study area to combat current as well as future seawater intrusion problem.

Details

Journal of Modelling in Management, vol. 6 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1746-5664

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Article
Publication date: 9 November 2010

Wahid Murad, Rafiqul Islam Molla, Mazlin Bin Mokhtar and Abdur Raquib

The purpose of this paper is to identify and analyze the link between climate change and agricultural growth in Malaysia, and pursue three sub‐objectives: to determine and analyze…

3764

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify and analyze the link between climate change and agricultural growth in Malaysia, and pursue three sub‐objectives: to determine and analyze the link between agricultural growth rate and climate change score; to determine and analyze the link between per capita CO2 emissions and agricultural production index; and to determine and analyze the link between per capita agricultural production index and per capita CO2 emissions.

Design/methodology/approach

Relevant time series data compiled from several online sources including the Germanwatch, Ministry of Finance, Malaysia, and the United Nations database were used. The data for agricultural growth rate and climate change score for Malaysia were found to be available only for the four recent years from 2006 to 2009. The data for other variables such as per capita agricultural production index and per capita CO2 emissions have been standardized covering the period from 1990 to 2004. The ordinary least squares methods were employed to estimate the parameters in the three linear regression models.

Findings

The empirical results of the study reveal three important observations for Malaysia: the link between agricultural growth rate and climate change score is proven to be negative, but insignificant (p>0.1); the link between per capita CO2 emissions and agricultural production index is found to be direct and highly significant (p<0.01); and the link between per capita agricultural production index and per capita CO2 emissions is proven to be positive and highly significant (p<0.01). Also, an increasing level of per capita CO2 emissions in the country is proven to have both detrimental and beneficial effects on its agricultural growth. For instance, agricultural growth in Malaysia is found to produce significant effects on climate change, primarily through the production and release of CO2.

Originality/value

The paper recommends that the two‐way link between climate change and agricultural growth depends on the balance of the effects and that an in‐depth assessment of such effects might help the appropriate authority to anticipate the effects more accurately. The paper will be useful to researchers wishing to conduct research and develop models on the nexus between climate change and agriculture.

Details

International Journal of Climate Change Strategies and Management, vol. 2 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1756-8692

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 1 November 2011

Tahir Albayrak and Meltem Caber

466

Abstract

Details

Journal of Modelling in Management, vol. 6 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1746-5664

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